The Homework Machine

The Homework Machine follows four fifth-grade students who become connected through their use of a computer that completes homework automatically. Brenton Damagatchi, a genius who created the machine, shares his invention with classmates Sam, Judy, and Kelsey - an unlikely group who must keep their advantage hidden from teachers and other students. The story is told through police interviews and firsthand accounts from multiple characters, revealing different perspectives on the machine and its effects. Their initial excitement about never doing homework again transforms as they face moral questions and unexpected consequences. What begins as a straightforward tale about cutting corners becomes an examination of choices, responsibility, and what it means to truly learn. The book tackles themes of academic integrity, friendship, and the role of technology in education.

Readers found this book to be a light, fast-paced read targeting grades 4-6. The multiple-viewpoint format through different character testimonies kept young readers engaged. Liked: - Relatable school scenarios and realistic dialogue - Clear moral messages about honesty and consequences - Humor that appeals to middle grade students - Short chapters make it accessible for reluctant readers Disliked: - Predictable plot developments - Some found the characters stereotypical - Several readers noted the ending felt rushed - Parents mentioned concerns about the book promoting cheating Ratings: Goodreads: 3.8/5 (13,900+ ratings) Amazon: 4.6/5 (280+ ratings) Scholastic: 4/5 "My students could really connect with the ethical dilemma these kids faced," noted one teacher reviewer on Goodreads. Multiple parents commented that the book sparked good discussions about academic integrity with their children. Some readers criticized the "convenient" resolution, with one Amazon reviewer stating "the consequences didn't feel realistic for such a major offense."

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🔸 Dan Gutman wrote The Homework Machine after his own children complained about homework, inspiring him to imagine a world where a machine could do it all. 🔸 The story is told through multiple perspectives, featuring police interviews and testimonials from different characters, making it read like a documentary investigation. 🔸 The book explores ethical dilemmas about cheating and technology that remain relevant today, especially as AI and homework-helping tools become more prevalent. 🔸 The main character's nickname "Brainiac" is a reference to a Superman villain who is also a super-intelligent being, reflecting the character's exceptional intelligence. 🔸 The book was so popular it spawned a sequel called "Return of the Homework Machine," which follows the same characters as they deal with the consequences of their actions.